Red, rugged, irresistible – a hike to Montaña Bermeja

View from Montaña Bermeja
View from Montaña Bermeja

Montaña Bermeja (157 m) – the red mountain to the north of La GraciosaAt its foot: Playa de las Conchas – one of the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands. Standing up here, you can see Montaña Clara so close that it seems as though you could swim across to it.

Route details

Route details at a glance
Route Northern island circular walk (Las Conchas)
Length 19.6 km (full circular walk) – Bermeja can also be included as a detour
Ascent 302 hm including the summit
Walking time 7–8.5 hours
Difficulty Difficult – long route, stony terrain
Signposting None – GPS track essential
Best time of year October – May
Highlights Playa de las Conchas · View of Montaña Clara · North coast

The route: the northern part of the island up close

Playa de las Conchas – the dream beach

the dream beach, Playa de las Conchas, at the foot of Montaña Bermeja
the dream beach, Playa de las Conchas, at the foot of Montaña Bermeja

Playa de las Conchaswhite sand, turquoise Atlantic, Montaña Clara right behind it. The water sounds better than it often is – strong surf and currents frequently make swimming impossible. Always check conditions on site.

Climb up Montaña Bermeja – panoramic view of three islands

Climb up Montaña Bermeja
Climb up Montaña Bermeja

The red volcanic rock gives the mountain its name – and provides good grip during the climb. At the top: Montaña Clara to the north, Alegranza on the horizon, and Playa de las Conchas at the foot of the mountain.

Los Arcos de los Caletones – the rugged north coast

Los Arcos de los Caletones
Los Arcos de los Caletones

Los Arcos de los Caletonesbasalt arches stacked one on top of the other, through which the Atlantic hurls spray when the waves are rough. This is nature in action.

⚠️ Safety

Playa de las Conchas: swimming is often not possible – strong surf and dangerous currents; always check conditions on site

North coast: keep your distance from the waves

Circular walk (19.3 km): only for well-prepared walkers; can be shortened by taking a jeep taxi

GPS track essential – no signposting

At least 3 litres of water for the full circuit

Frequently asked questions

❓ Can you swim at Playa de las Conchas?

Often not. Strong surf and dangerous currents. Always check conditions on site – if the sea is rough or the red flag is flying: do not swim.

❓ Do you have to walk the full 19-km loop?

No. Take a jeep taxi to the starting point in the north, then just the northern section. Or visit Bermeja as a detour from Playa de las Conchas.

Conclusion

This article is based on on-site research by the go-la-graciosa.com editorial team. As of April 2026